On Tuesday 6 February, MEPs in Strasbourg said the political change in Zimbabwe's leadership in November brought hope for the country' people, and that the respect of human rights will be key for the country to mark a real turning point towards democracy.
Responsive to the positive signs sent by the new leaders, the MEPs underlined the importance of the democratic elections that were promised in July being held by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in order for the country to benefit from the EU's full support. Some MEPs, such as Cécile Kashetu Kyenge (S&D, Italy), nevertheless warned of the risk of a "lack of political offer" for these elections.
The MEPs' analysis of the situation is consistent with that of High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, who was at the plenary session in Strasbourg to present the constructive, but cautious, attitude of the EU towards the authorities of Zimbabwe (see EUROPE 11944).
"We have a unique opportunity for change. For the first time since independence, the transition of power has begun. We still do not know very well where this transition is heading. The EU would first like to accompany the people on the road of reform. We are full of hope", Mogherini stated.
She added: "we are ready to step up our cooperation and to support Zimbabwe. It will be for the people of Zimbabwe to decide the direction of their country (...) We hope the authorities will organise credible, transparent and inclusive elections this year". Mogherini spoke of an initial "encouraging discussion" in Addis Ababa last week between the president and European Commissioner for Development Neven Mimica.
Giving assurances that the EU will work with the international financial institutions on a package of measures to stabilise the economy and ensure basic social services, Mogherini said it was up to the new authorities to make the first move. "All will depend on the will for change. If Zimbabwe takes the road of change, it can count on the EU", she said.
"There is hope. The international community should help Zimbabwe make it concrete and give the country all its support if free, fair and democratic elections are assured", Geoffrey Van Orden (ECR, UK) who chairs the Friends of Zimbabwe group at the European Parliament stated. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)